Rago Arts is an auction house which specializes in fine art, decorative arts, furnishings, ethnographic artifacts and my favorite--jewelry! Although they have a worldwide marketplace and global outreach, the personal service they provide is something Rago Arts is proud of. The big jewelry auction is every December, and this year’s date is the 6th and is sure to be full of beautiful pieces. I recently got a chance to ask Rago Arts’ Jewelry Specialist, Sarah Churgin, a few questions to get more details. She has also sent me a few “sneak peeks” of a few pieces that will be in December’s sale. Enjoy reading and looking at the fine jewels!
GemGossip: How long has Rago Arts offered a selection of jewelry for auction?
Sarah Churgin: Rago Auctions had offered some jewelry since it’s inception 28 years ago. The identity of the auction house is connected to ” 20th Century Design”. For two years prior to my arrival in 2001, Bakelite and Designer Costume Jewelry had been the direction of the jewelry department. We still love those collectibles but now we cover gems, fine jewelry and antique categories as well. A recent trend has been a growing market for late 20th century studio artisan jewelry.
GemGossip: Where do you get most of your pieces that get auctioned off?
Sarah Churgin: All of our pieces come from estate or inherited consignments. With very few exceptions we do not take anything from jewelry dealers.
Some of our best pieces come in during our weekly open appraisal event.
GemGossip:How many lots of jewelry are you expecting for this year’s December sale? More or less than last year?
Sarah Churgin: Now in it’s 9th season, the December Great Estates Sale has a growing following, and the auction house is becoming recognized as a good place to sell estate jewelry. We have expanded our multi departmental semi-annual Discovery Sales to accommodate the increased number of consignment so the average lot in the upcoming sale is of higher quality than the average lot of any year to date. We estimate a 325 lot jewelry sale. Many of those lots consist of multiple pieces.
GemGossip: Have you ever acquired a piece of jewelry that ended up in your jewelry box rather than the bidding block? Have you come across a really interesting/unique piece of jewelry that you will never forget?
Sarah Churgin: I love jewelry. I wear it, study it, dream about it. Would I be happy to get some of the lots into my own jewelry box? ….Of course! …. Many of the consignments inspire lust. I am only human. But it would be unethical for me to offer a consignor a cash buy-out. The market sets the price. The pieces I really like always end up selling for way more than I could pay for them. Still I do get to try-on almost everything.
Innumerable important and memeorable pieces have come through. Some of then now reside at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Every sale offers it’s rare finds. this year’s sale includes a Cartier Stars and Stripes brooch, c. 1927, unearthed from among a group of much lesser worth. The moment of discovery is such a thrill!
GemGossip: If someone is interested in bidding, what are the steps they would have to take?
Sarah Churgin: The auction preview will be on the website by mid-November. Anyone interested in bidding should contact us at “www.ragoarts.com“
These sunny, warm days of September make me want to sail away on a beautiful sailboat off into the sunset. Jewelry has a heavy nautical influence, anything from boat charms, to sailing knots, to the marine link. I’ve pointed out some trendy knot motifs in rings, and even our Charity Bracelet is designed with a special sailing knot in order for it to be adjustable. These bracelets are all designed by Tiffany & Co. from the early 1990s, and can be purchased at Beladora.
Set sail in style with this charming Tiffany “Sailboats” signed designer bangle. This estate designer bracelet is crafted in 18k yellow gold, featuring a fleet of sailboats, inset with mother of pearl and malachite sails atop shimmering lapis waters. This estate signed designer bracelet is approximately 1 1/8 inches wide and retailed for $6,625.00 in 1992. Beladora’s price: $4850
This 18k yellow gold marine link bracelet features lapis along with the bright, high polished gold signed by Tiffany & Co. The bracelet measures 7.5 inches and retailed for $4200 in 1993. Beladora’s price: $3250
I think this bangle has such a beautiful pattern which mimics the ocean’s waves. The classic 18k yellow gold signed designer bangle has a wave-like pattern created with inlaid mother of pearl, alternating with lapis. This bracelet originally retailed for $4,675.00 in 1992. Beladora‘s price: $3650
Free days from work are few and far between, and I have taken advantage of those that seem to suddenly come up by antiquing and treasure hunting. Can’t forget about a favorite that has become easier, at least for me, to scoop up a deal: eBay! I’ve been spending nights lately looking for steals in the Fine subcategory of Antique and Vintage Jewelry.
I came across this ring sold by seller name: jgoldilox and was so surprised that I was the final bidder at the last moment (I always lose!) What is interesting about a few of her rings is that they actually used to be antique stick pins. The seller has turned them into rings by carefully bending the stick portion into a ring. So clever! I am wearing the ring on my middle finger in the photo below. Be sure to check out her jewelry she sells, she is great!
As far as antiquing, I’ve narrowed down the top places to find the best antique jewelry in the Nashville area. Yes, they are ranked in order, #1 being the best.If you have any suggestions of other places around here, let me know!
I checked out Walton’s Antique & Estate Jewelry in Franklin, Tennessee this past weekend, after the frightening tornado outbreak minutes away from my house! A well-deserved trip after the stressfulness of all the weather. Take a look at my pendant purchased as a gift for me below. It is a 14k yellow gold pendant from the 1950s, with a diamond and four sapphires.
It is an amazing store, with a vast selection of antique jewelry. It was a pleasant surprise to see such amazing jewelry in a small shop like this. Their antique engagement ring selection is great–about a four-foot long case full. They also have many bar pins and brooches, several Art Deco cocktail watches with diamonds, great antique bracelets and much more. I highly recommend this store.
Just some amazing pendants, that are delicate and gorgeous! All unique in their own way–different styles, different materials, and from different periods of time. One thing is for sure, they are all vintage and would look great on. Read on for the details…
The white enameling is so unique on this pendant, you don’t see that too often. The green stones are peridots. You can find this piece from Craig Evan Small Estate Jewelry.
This pendant is delicate, intricate–just plain beautiful! It is comprised of moonstones, sapphires and diamonds. What is interesting about this piece is that it was created during a transitional time between two different artistic movements. This has allowed two different styles to be combined into this one pendant. The price is $5400, from Glorius Antique Jewelry, featured at 1stDibs.
This gold and crystal heart pendant belongs to the genre known as regard jewelry, which always includes the use of the stones ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, and diamond. The first letter of each of the gems is an acrostic that spells regard. Interesting, right? Circa 1890, featured at 1stdibs, priced at $1800.
Every month I nearly die writing out that $550 check for my car payment. Do you realize how nice of a piece of jewelry I could have purchased with that kind of money?! Having a budget and bargain shopping have become everyone’s reality. So how are Americans ever supposed to afford diamonds and gold? With that in mind, I have scoped out some amazing vintage finds that are all under $250. Antique jewelry is the way to go–not only is it “greener,” but its quality and craftsmanship is like no other. Besides, $250 is totally doable if you save change over several months or sell some of your old stuff laying around. With your latest acquisition, it can lift your spirits during these harsh times everytime you look at it!
This necklace is trendy and cute, would be great layered with other necklaces. Circa 1975, the black onyx hearts are totally 70s but would still be fashionable. The setting and chain are 14k yellow gold and priced at $137.50 from Beladora.
Also from Beladora are these great statement earrings. You would never guess these cost $175.50! Such a great investment, and these can be worn with anything and everything. They have a nice twisted style to them, called a “doorknocker” done in 14k yellow gold.
Need some luck? Or maybe even just another stackable bracelet to add to your collection? This is a great find for only $245. The buddha is carved jade, which dangles from a braided leather cord with 14k yellow gold clasps. Make this your everyday bracelet! From C.H.A.R.M.
These are lion doorknocker stud earrings from Doyle & Doyle. From their contemporary heirloom collection, these are 18k white gold. I can picture these looking great with diamond studs and gold cross studs in as well, if you have multiple piercings. Price: $150
And finally, my last pick is this charming necklace from Beladora. I think it would look great layered with the heart necklace above. This is actually an antique bar pin converted into a pendant necklace. Three diamonds top it off, all set in 15k yellow gold (yes, 15k it is not a typo, it is of English origin). Price: $175.50
Check out Beladora’s other pendant necklaces that feature a bar pin converted into a necklace. They are great!
Don’t have the time to strut your stuff on Rodeo Drive? Luckily Beladora is online and you can shop whenever without leaving the comforts of your home. Browse through hundreds of vintage and estate jewels, even designer pieces like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chopard, David Webb and many more. Check back frequently for more additions, and check out their “mini-me” version called Beladora 2, with a more affordable, less ornate selection.
These earrings are destined for the red carpet! 18k yellow and blackened gold, with turquoise and diamonds. Total diamond weight: 2.11 carats! And, hey everyone needs a good pair of chandelier earrings. Price: $1850
Bangles are always chic, but add some bright coral and you’ve got yourself a knock out piece! Circa 1965, this bracelet has 18k yellow and white gold with diamonds and coral intertwined. Price: $4250
Elegant emerald necklace–so delicate and truly a statement of its time. From 1965, it is done in none other than platinum. Beladora describes it as having a ‘negligee’ style. Price: $14500
Sometimes pearl necklaces all look the same to me! However, this pearl necklace is unlike any I’ve seen. The clasp is gorgeous, featuring a diamond and six sapphires. Now, if your necklace is on backwards, it will look better! Price: $535.50
These beautiful pieces of jewelry featuring jade will never leave you feeling jaded. The combination of white gold or platinum with jade, whether it is a cabochon or carved, is just so pretty to me. Owning a piece of jade jewelry is necessary for any jewelry enthusiast. Check out the lovely vintage picks below!
American made, vintage from the 1920s–these beautiful carved jade earrings are set in platinum and diamonds. Bring the roaring twenties back when wearing these, fitted with original screwbacks that were popular then. From Lawrence Jeffrey Estate Jewelers and priced at $3800.
From the Edwardian Period come these platinum, diamond and jade earrings. I love the bow motif that was always seen during this time period, and having it paired with the jade is even more interesting. Priced at $9000 from Meriwether.
These vintage jade earrings have the carved jade style that I love. I like the subtle etching with the tiny holes, gives it a great, almost delicate look. I’ve never seen jewelry done in platinum over 18k yellow gold, but here is the first example! Priced at $2450 from Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry.
Desperate times call for desperate measures. It seems “end-of-the-year” sales are everywhere…with coupons galore! Frankly, the only year-end sale I am looking forward to is the Ross-Simons sale. Offering perks like free shipping and additional 20% off already low prices, you can’t beat that. My top “must haves” are featured below, but see for yourself and browse the huge selection…you won’t be disappointed!
Vintage 1970 star sapphire dome ring, done in 18k yellow gold. This ring is on sale for $636 currently. I like the swirling bypass effect it has.
This is an onyx ring that features a carved jade floral. The 14k yellow gold bezel adds an elegance to the look. Priced at only $92 currently.
This is as good as it gets! Vintage 1900 diamond ring with blue enameling around the center diamond, which is a half carat. The total diamond weight is 1.5 carats, at only $6636 currently with the sale. This is a perfect example of a Victorian piece.
I love this citrine masterpiece. It is an estate find from the 1970s, featuring a 22.5 carat citrine! At only a size 3, this would make a great pinky ring. It is $1436 on sale.
And lastly, this sapphire dome ring is vintage from 1980. It has almost 3 carats of blue sapphire, flanked in 14k white gold. Priced at $1196 currently.
Well the auction hammers have been heard, and the estate jewelry auction has come to a close yesterday. Looks like the economy has affected this jewelry auction as well, since many lots sold for half of its expected price. The lots that I featured on my blog, however, went for more than expected. Whoever was the highest bidder for any of the auction lots is lucky to get such high quality estate jewelry. Did any of my readers bid? Win??
This edwardian ribbon necklace, featuring diamonds, jade and pearls, auctioned off for $3500 yesterday. That was $1000 less than expected end price.
The Rago Arts auction house has another Estate Jewelry auction scheduled for December 7th. The company has many years of experience dealing with antiques, decorative arts and furnishings. Something fun and exciting to do is browse the archives. They have a complete catalogue of past auctions, including what the predicted estimate was for each item, and what the final bid price ended up as. These results give you a good generalization of how to price estate jewelry, and are great “study guides” if you are interested in bidding in the future.
The next estate jewelry auction at Rago is set for December 7, 2008. The items are currently up to browse…and there are some amazing estate pieces! Below are a few lots of auction items that are my favorites! These are sure to get high bids.
I recently found a tiny ad in Domino Magazine for an antique emporium where buyers and sellers can come together. I love checking out new sites, but hate getting disappointed by most. When browsing Ruby Lane, I was very much surprised. Their selection of antique and vintage jewelry goes on and on, with so many sellers to choose from. After looking for a few hours, I was about to call it a night since my eyes would no longer stay open without me making them. I then came across a dainty little ring, with a reasonable price.
I read the description, and it fit my standards: 10k solid rose gold, small diamond, great condition, from the Victorian era–check, check, check AND CHECK! I had to have it! With a sudden burst of energy, I emailed the seller. A good vintage jewelry hunter always asks slightly lower than ticket price. Just remember to be reasonable.
After work the next day, I was happy to learn that the seller accepted my offer and would include shipping and handling! Well, I just received the ring and absolutely love it! It was worth staying up late to peruse just a few more pages worth of jewelry. When I glance at it throughout the day while wearing it, I often wonder who wore it before and what memories it holds. Being from the Victorian Era, it probably has a great significance. Stop on by Ruby Lane to find your very own treasure today (or late tonight)!
You know you watch the show every week; you even watch reruns and not even know it. Twenty minutes into the rerun you’re like–”wait, didn’t I just watch this episode last night?” But you’ll finish the last ten minutes until the end just because. Million Dollar Listing has been pretty good television. I even get to have snack breaks when Madison’s part comes on (he’s so boring). Chad is my favorite. I also like to predict what clips are going to be on The Soup because Joel McHale does a sweet job of making fun of him. Now, after the latest episode, I’ve come to like Chad and his girlfriend Victoria even more, so I might not laugh as hard the next time Joel McHale makes fun of him.
The episode shows Chad at a jewelry store, picking out a gift for Victoria for their one year anniversary. Chad chose a vintage diamond ring from the 1920s–nice move. The ring was perfect for the occasion and he presented it to her in Palm Springs. I’ve found a few “look-alikes” on some vintage jewelry online shops, so check them out below, and you could have you’re very own vintage ring as seen on Million Dollar Listing!
This ring has a similar style to the one Chad gave Victoria. It is also from the same time period. There are seven rose cut diamonds (lucky number??) and the ring is set in 18k yellow and white gold. It can be found here at Adin. Price: around $625.
The next similar ring comes from Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry. This one is very elegant and has more diamond weight to it–1.15 carats to be exact. It is also set in platinum. The price on this one is $3950. Worth it!
This one is probably the most similar to the style and shape of the ring Chad got Victoria. He mentioned while purchasing the ring, that it sort of looked like a butterfly, and this does as well. It is from the Ross-Simons estate collection, and priced at $1195 ($956 if you catch the Labor Day Sale). Very pretty, set in 14k white gold with, again, seven diamonds. Must be a trend that was done back in the 20s-30s, with the seven diamonds.
You can tune in to the Bravo channel, and check your local listings for times of Million Dollar Listing. You could probably turn it on TV right now and watch it, it’s always on.
Earrings are always alittle more difficult to find when shopping vintage. Some have very strange looking screw-on backs that look like you need a screwdriver to open them up–yikes. Earrings, to me, are always the easiest piece of jewelry to lose. Whether an earring back falls off, and you lose one earring or the snap-bar closure doesn’t “snap” tightly enough. I’ve experienced it all…and I’m sure you have. Lately I’ve been having the problem of falling asleep with my earrings on, and in the middle of the night, unconsciously, I’ll take them out and fling them somewhere. Not good. Anyways, here are a few estate earrings that I found while browsing. Enjoy!
So cute and dainty, these diamond dangles are true reflections of the Edwardian time period. They are from Ross-Simons estate collection, and are priced at $6800. There are 2 carats of diamonds and set in 14k yellow gold.
These are also from Ross-Simons estate collection. They are from the 1930s and are so stunning, whether you would wear them day or night. The green stone is a jade cabochon, which is surrounded by black onyx rectangles–very unique. Of course there are loads of diamonds and the earrings are set in platinum. Price: $6200.
Lastly, these chic, turquoise enamel earrings are from Adin fine antique jewelry, located in Belgium. These would go great with many of the trends right now. They are 18k yellow gold and are priced at about $124. I wish I would’ve rocked these in my new driver’s license photo I had to take this morning…of course after waiting hours in line.
This week’s estate finds all have one thing in common: they make a bold statement. When you wear pieces like this, you don’t need any other jewelry on or else you’ll have a mess. There’s only one person I can think of that can pull off loads of bold jewelry, and that’s Mary-Kate Olsen. Each of these pieces could also be worn day or night.
I can picture this bold, enamel cross necklace with a deep plunging, summer top. It would stand out in such a pretty way. It is from 1800s, France and can be found on the website Adin. The company is located in Belgium and they deal with fine estate jewelry, mostly from France. Their selection is always unique and fun to look through.
This ring belongs on a hand of someone who is ready to make a statement. I would wear this on my middle finger, with no other rings. It deserves a funky/trendy outfit to go with it–something from Urban Outfitters or American Apparel. It is from Ross-Simons estate collection and goes for $8556, which is actually on sale! The diamond is over 1 1/2 carats, set in platinum with rectangular diamonds as accents and rubies.
Another estate find from Ross-Simons is this incredible yellow diamond necklace. It is from the 1900s and the yellow diamond comes with certification. This necklace is bold and looks like royalty. If you have $6636, it could be yours!
I came across a website which specializes in antique and estate jewelry. As I was checking it out, I realized what a great selection of engagement rings they had to offer! I think a lot of people underestimate the Internet when ring shopping. Right away one might think it would be too risky or a rip-off. However, these sellers have been doing this sort of thing for years, and if they did happen to sell you a fake diamond, you could probably get them in a lot of trouble. Anyway, my advice to you is to shop around! It won’t hurt to look on the Internet. And you never know, there might be that special ring somewhere in cyberspace waiting–the perfect one! Remember, you will be wearing this baby “til death do you part.” So make it a good one!
My top two picks from the website I found, Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry, are shown above. The first one being a rose cut, which is unique because it is more like 3-D, where it juts out alittle ways, rather than being flush with the prongs. I like the style of it and the cut. It is 1.35 carats, which is big but not too overwhelming, and is priced at $7950. The Emerald cut ring is breathtaking! This one is 1.89 carats and set in platinum…so right there sets the bar pretty high. I like how the center stones and the side stones match and I also like how the side stones are set with the bezels instead of prongs. Are you ready for the price? $14750!
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